Chair, citizens have not been educated to any great depth as to their expected roles, nor capacitated to play any meaningful role in the functioning of structures established to give voice to their needs. It is not implied that the citizen has been excluded entirely. To date, however, it could be argued that the depth to which they participate has been capped. To seek opinion from another and not capacitate the other to give an informed opinion is mutually detrimental and contrary to the envisaged mutually beneficial governance model that is taking shape. The current relationship with the citizen in a partnership is a shallow one, which will not in its current form optimally assist the state or the citizen. A holistic approach to service delivery, which recognises the barriers to accessing services such as social, cultural, physical and attitudinal services, needs to be taken into account.
Service delivery programmes should, therefore, specifically address the needs to progressively readdress the disadvantages of all barriers to access in a continuous dialogue with all stakeholders.
The department is encouraged to continue with its innovative approach to solving complex challenges associated with governance in its effort to create a better life for all. In developing the White Paper that will guide the drafting of the results Bill, the department should take into consideration the words of Albert Einstein who said, "Problems cannot be solved by the level of awareness that created them."
Isn't it then an ideal opportunity to take a deep hard look at the negotiated legal framework that prescribes the functioning of government in and between spheres and between departments to come up with a solution that is practical, long lasting and functional, a system that best serves the interests of the state and all her citizens? I thank you. [Applause.]